Carla Kenney: 12 Who Made a Difference in Central Mass in 2012

Carla Kenney of Uxbridge has a huge heart for people suffering from behavioral disorders. The licensed mental health counselor specializes in the treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and other spectrum disorders such as hoarding, body dysmorphic disorder, trichotillomania, skin picking, Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders associated with Strep (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). Carla says that while some of this work can be very difficult, it is ultimately very rewarding.

Carla provides home based behavioral therapy to children, teens and adults. Sometimes individuals with these illnesses are unable to leave their homes to see a doctor or a therapist in an office setting. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure response prevention (ERP) to treat these often disabling illnesses.

This approach teaches individuals how to identify and change their thinking and behaviors with exposure practice, so they can live normal, healthy lives. Carla says she is grateful to conduct her work in Massachusetts, and particularly in Worcester, where she and her female colleagues are highly supported and some of the best work in this field is being conducted.

The self-proclaimed nature lover says her work can at times be stressful, so she keeps her life in balance by volunteering at animal rescue groups. Carla has been recognized for her service with animals and supports local fundraising events such as Pet Rock, Paws in the Park and Whisker Walk to name a few. However, her greatest love is bringing hope to patients who feel hope is lost.